One of the most exciting things for kids to do in Morocco is taking a camel ride through a real desert. Agafay Desert is a short drive away from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech, but the landscape has been described as being more similar to Mars!. Imagine riding on the “ship of the desert” as you navigate the rocky, barren landscape. The camel ride itself is gentle and fun, offering a fantastic chance to see the desert’s beauty up close. It’s a great photo op too, and your children will love the chance to bond with their camel guide and learn about these fascinating creatures.
For families with older kids or teens, quad biking or ATV rides across the desert landscape is an adrenaline-packed way to explore the area. Many tours provide quad bikes suitable for beginners and offer guided routes, so the whole family can feel safe while zooming over the desert’s trails. It’s a thrilling way to experience the Agafay Desert’s vastness and beauty, with plenty of fun along the way.
One of the best things about Agafay is its connection to traditional Berber culture. While visiting, kids can learn about the local Berber people, who have lived in this area for centuries. You can visit small Berber villages, where your kids will see how local families make their living, and even try their hand at traditional crafts, like pottery or weaving. Many camps offer immersive cultural experiences that include local music, dance, and storytelling, which will captivate children of all ages.
Agafay Desert is far from city lights, making it an excellent location for stargazing. After a day of adventure, you can sit back and admire the brilliant night sky, free from light pollution. Kids will be amazed by the constellations, and some desert camps offer telescopes and guides to help identify planets and stars. This magical experience is educational and awe-inspiring for the whole family.
If your family loves outdoor adventures, Agafay is full of opportunities for nature walks. The desert landscape might not have the towering sand dunes of the Sahara, but it offers rocky terrain, small hills, and hidden valleys that are perfect for exploration. Kids can look for desert wildlife, from birds to lizards, and marvel at the unique flora that survives in this harsh environment. Many local guides offer educational walks where families can learn about the desert ecosystem.
For an extra-special experience, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the Agafay Desert. This is a thrilling way to see the vastness of the desert landscape and the surrounding Atlas Mountains. Floating high above the ground, you’ll get stunning panoramic views, and it’s an experience kids will never forget. Some operators even include a small breakfast upon landing, making it a perfect family morning adventure.
After all the fun activities, Agafay offers some delicious Moroccan food for the whole family to enjoy. Many desert camps serve traditional Moroccan tagines, freshly baked bread, couscous, and sweet pastries. Kids can try local specialties, and many camps cater to family preferences, ensuring everyone leaves with full stomachs and happy hearts.
